As charges against a slain Portland newlywed's alleged killer begin to stack, donations to help fund her funeral continue to soar past its five-figure goal.
Police in Beaverton, Oregon, announced the discovery of a nurse, 32-year-old Melissa Jubane's remains Saturday, after family first reported her missing three days prior.
Melissa failed to show up for her morning shift at St. Vincent Hospital in Portland, causing concern among loved ones.
"As a result of an extensive investigation, it was determined that one of Melissa's neighbors, 27-year-old Bryce Johnathan Schubert of Beaverton, was involved in her disappearance. Subsequently, Schubert was arrested this evening and charged with Melissa's murder. Melissa Jubane's remains have been recovered," police confirmed on Facebook over the weekend.
Schubert – Melissa's neighbor – has been charged with second-degree murder, first-degree kidnapping, and abuse of a corpse, in connection with Melissa's death, jail records indicate.
He has not yet entered a plea to the charges and a motive remains under investigation.
While Schubert awaits a preliminary hearing slated for Monday, donors have rallied around the victim, raising nearly $80,000 for burial costs, at press time.
"Melissa was not only a loving daughter, friend, and community member, but also a dedicated nurse who cared deeply for her family, friends, and patients," the GoFundMe description read. "She touched countless lives with her kindness, compassion, and selflessness."
"We want to give Melissa the memorial she deserves, to honor her memory, and allow her family the time and space to heal without additional financial stress."
Less than two weeks before she disappeared, Melissa married longtime love Bryan Llantero in a wedding ceremony in Oahu, Hawaii.
"I miss her," Bryan's mom, Imelda Llantero, told KHON-TV over the weekend. "I'm so happy Bryan met her, I told Bryan to always love her. They were happy, very happy."
